Illumination assembly usable with a plurality of devices

ABSTRACT

An illumination assembly includes a light source having one or more light generating elements, preferably light emitting diodes (LED), connected to a power supply. A mounting assembly connected to the light source and power supply is structured to removably dispose the one or more LED&#39;s in any one of a plurality of orientations which best facilitates the illumination of a work area of the device. The light source, power supply and mounting assembly may assume a variety of different structural configurations so as to be adaptable to different devices. The power supply and any one or more of the LED&#39;s may be removed, replaced and repaired, wherein the versatility of the illumination assembly is such as to be usable with any of a large variety of instruments, mechanical tools or a variety of other utilitarian devices in order to achieve an adequately illuminate the work area thereof.

CLAIM OF PRIORITY

The present application is a continuation-in-part application based onand a claim of priority is made under 35 U.S.C. Section 119(e) toutility patent application in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Officehaving Ser. No. 10/649,132 and a filing date of Aug. 26, 2003, whichmatured into U.S. Pat. No. 6,988,814 on Jan. 24, 2006, which applicationis based on and a claim of priority is made under 35 U.S.C. Section119(e) to provisional patent application having Ser. No. 60/465,538 anda filing date of Apr. 25, 2003, all of which are incorporated in theirentirety herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

This invention relates to an illumination assembly structured to beremovably and adjustably connected to or integrated within any of avariety of utilitarian devices for purposes of effectively illuminatingan intended work area of the device. One or more light sources includeone or more light generating elements, preferably in the form oflight-emitting diodes energized by a contained power supply, wherein thelight source and power supply have a sufficiently reduced dimension tobe mounted on or incorporated within the various devices.

2. Description of the Related Art

Technology is a major catalyst in the product market. As a practicalconsequence, many technological advances in a specific area or industrywill directly or residually impact other areas in today's modernsociety. The spectrum related to illumination has enjoyed substantiallyconstant improvement since the advent of the light bulb. Thelight-emitting diode or “LED” is an extremely popular light generatingelement which has encountered significant improvements in bothperformance and economy of voltage. The brightness achieved by thetechnologically advanced LED has expanded its use in areas includingtaillights on vehicles, flashlights, medical equipment, hobby craft,jewelry, and most especially electronics. However, it is generallyrecognized that the LED market has not enjoyed the innovativeexploitation in certain segments of modern industry. By way of example,devices including medical instruments, mechanical tools, and otherutilitarian devices, while frequently requiring illuminated conditionsfor maximum efficiency, do not often include a self-contained or readilyadaptable light source. Accordingly, in this industry as well asnumerous other market segments, individuals continue to struggle withthe use of such devices.

Therefore, it is clear that the need and desirability for an externallight source incorporated within an improved illumination assembly wouldovercome many of the problems currently existing with the use of theutilitarian devices of the type set forth above. Illumination assembliesspecifically designed to be used with tools, devices such as tweezers,medical instruments, and the like, while attempting to overcome problemsof the type set forth above, have not been completely successful asevidenced by their lack of availability on the commercial market.Problems associated with the use of such known or conventionalstructures include the location, configuration and/or structuring ofknown external light sources in a manner which creates shadows due to“back lighting” rather than accomplishing targeted and pinpointdirection of an illumination field onto an intended work area of theinstrument in question. Further, the available light structures,particularly those of the type used with utilitarian devices such astools and instruments, encounter other disadvantages, such as being ofexcessive weight or size, thereby frequently interfering with theintended or conventional operation of the device during its use.

By way of example, certain mechanical tools such as, but not limited toa screwdriver structure is known to incorporate a rear-lighted handlebase. However, reluctance on the part of the manufacturer or tooldesigner to completely redesign the overall structural and operativefeatures of such a device results in the existing screwdriver beingheavy, bulky and therefore usable for only limited purposes.Understandably, the reluctance on the part of manufactures to completelyredesign a line of tools has resulted in the lack of a variety ofdifferent instruments, tools, etc. having effective and efficientassociated light sources.

Based on the above there is a significant and long recognized need foran illumination assembly either in the form of a removable andadjustable exteriorly mounted structure or an illumination assemblyintegrated into the tool or instrument itself. Such an improvedillumination assembly would provide the desired and effective lightingof a given or intended work area associated with the use of theinstrument, tool or device. Further, such an improved illuminationassembly should demonstrate sufficient versatility to allow selectiveorientation or adjustment of the light source, preferably in the form ofone or more LED's so as to ensure proper illumination of the work areain question. Further, such an improved illumination assembly should bestructured so as to accomplish quick and easy adaptation to a variety ofdifferent devices including tweezers, screwdrivers, hex keys, wrenches,ratchets, pens, pencils, magnetic pickups, pliers, drills, saws,mechanical tools of all types, electronic tools as well as numerousother utilitarian devices. In addition, such a preferred and improvedillumination assembly should be designed and structured so as to beavailable to the consuming public at a reasonable cost and not interferewith the intended use or operation of the associated device. Finally,such a preferred illumination assembly should be of a reduced orcomparable size and configuration to correspond to that of the device orinstrument with which it is used.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to an illumination assembly usablewith a variety of different devices by being removably and adjustablyattached thereto. In alternative preferred embodiments the illuminationassembly of the present invention can be structured to be substantiallyintegrated within the structure of the individual device. Theversatility of the various preferred embodiments of the presentinvention is demonstrated by the wide variety of devices with which itmay be used. As will be more evident herein after, such devices includemechanical tools, medical instruments, household implements or utensils,and a variety of other utilitarian devices which are normally, but notexclusively, operated by being hand-held.

As will also be apparent, certain preferred embodiments of theillumination assembly of the present invention may be more adaptable foruse with specific instruments, tools, utensils, etc. than others. By wayof example, the structure, size and configuration of certain devicesrender them more easily used with removably and/or adjustably mountedillumination assemblies rather than with the embodiments which areintegrated or “built-in” as part of the original assembly or manufactureof the tool, instrument or like device.

More specifically, the illumination assembly of the present invention,in its various preferred embodiments, includes a light source comprisingat least one light generating element. Substantially all of theembodiments described hereinafter will be represented as using alight-emitting diode as the light generating element of the lightsource. The intended spirit and scope of the present invention is notmeant to exclude other types of light generating elements. However,adaptability of the modern day, advanced LED to the various structuralmodifications of the illumination assembly as used in combination withthe diverse instruments or tools set forth above makes the LED thepreferred light generating element to be used.

Accordingly, the light source may comprise at least one LED but incertain preferred embodiments a plurality of LED's. In addition, a powersupply is provided preferably, but not exclusively, in directassociation with the light source such as by being mounted adjacentthereto and in direct electrical connection therewith. The power supplymay take the form of a reduced size battery of the type known in the artand commercially available. Such batteries are extremely small and arereplaceable as needed to provide adequate power to the one or more LED'sdefining the light source. Moreover, the power supply may becooperatively mounted, positioned or located in a manner such that thelight source and the power supply are secured to or mounted on one ofthe plurality of devices as an integrated unit. However, in at least onepreferred embodiment of the present invention the power supply and thelight source may be removably connected to one another by virtue of theprovision of a “plug-in” type of electrical interface. As with the otheroperative components of the various embodiments of the illuminationassembly, the coupling interface is appropriately dimensioned anddisposed and thereby facilitates the removable connection between thepower supply and the light source.

Another important feature of at least some of the preferred embodimentsof the present invention is the provision of a mounting assembly. Themounting assembly is connected in supporting relation to at least one ofthe light source and power supply, but can also be connected to both thelight source and the power supply. In each of the correspondingembodiments, the mounting assembly is structured to adjustably and/orremovably secure the light source on the device in a position whichfacilitates illumination of a predetermined work area thereof. In orderto better facilitate a preferred and selective illumination of thepredetermined work area, the light source and the mounting assembly arecooperatively structured to facilitate adjustably positioning orlocating the light source on the device. In addition, certain preferredembodiments of the illumination assembly provide for a selectiveorientation of the one or more LED's defining the light source relativeto the work area to accomplish the aforementioned preferred andeffective illumination of the work area.

Accordingly, one embodiment of the mounting assembly of the presentinvention comprises a sleeve having a hollow interior and terminating inoppositely disposed open ends. The sleeve may be formed of a flexible,at least minimally elastic or expandable material which is dimensionedand configured to provide a gripping type action on the portion of thedevice to which it is attached. However, it is emphasized that such agripping engagement will still permit selective positioning of thesleeve, as well as the light source and power supply connected theretorelative to the device on which it is mounted. Such selectivepositioning allows the light source to be efficiently disposed in theaforementioned preferred orientation to facilitate better illuminationof the work area. Therefore, due to the resilient or expandable natureof the material from which at least one embodiment of the mountingsleeve is formed, the sleeve may have a continuous or closed peripheralconfiguration which facilitates a sliding, surrounding engagement of themounting sleeve on the device.

As one alternative embodiment to the closed continuous configuration ofthe sleeve, the sleeve may include an access opening extendingsubstantially along the entire length thereof. The sleeve may then beselectively disposed in either an open or closed position. A closureassembly may be associated with the longitudinal or otherwise peripheralportions of the access opening to maintain it in a closed positionthereby assuring its maintenance in an intended, operative location onthe device.

Additional alternative embodiments of the mounting sleeve include itbeing formed from a substantially rigid material dimensioned, configuredand otherwise structured to substantially correspond to a portion of thetool, instrument or like device to which it is secured. This latterrigid material embodiment may be best suited for larger instruments suchas mechanical tools as will be explained in greater detail hereinafter.

Yet another embodiment of the mounting assembly includes a clip or clampassembly comprising a support platform for the light source andpreferably the power supply. The support platform is connected to twooutwardly extending flanges which are at least partially movablerelative to the platform. A biasing structure or assembly may beassociated with the clamp assembly and may preferably be provided in theform of a biasing spring or member. The biasing member is attachable tothe clamp assembly in a manner which normally biases the flanges into atleast partially surrounding, gripping engagement with a portion of thedevice on which it is mounted. Alternatively, the biasing structure canbe inherently formed in the platform and flanges due to it being moldedby an inherently resilient or flexible material such as plastic, metal,etc.

Another feature of a plurality of the preferred embodiments of theillumination assembly of the present invention includes the one or moreLED's being movable and therefore adjustable relative to the intendedwork area, the device on which it is mounted, the mounting assemblyand/or other ones of a plurality of LED's directly associated therewith.Such selective adjustability of the one or more LED's furtherfacilitates the orientation thereof into a position which bestilluminates the intended or predetermined work area. As should beapparent, such adjustability may be desirable dependent on theconfiguration, size, overall structure or intended use of the devicewith which the various embodiments of the illumination assembly areused.

Moreover, the ability to adjustably orient the one or more LED's isfurther enhanced by the provision of cooperative structures such as anextension assembly. The extension assembly comprises an elongated “gooseneck” or other structure which provides for the outwardly spacedlocation of one or more LED's from the mounting assembly with which theyare associated. Such an outwardly directed extension structure orassembly may be made from a pliable material or alternatively may bepre-configured and otherwise adjustably positioned relative to themounting assembly to which it is connected.

As set forth above, additional preferred embodiments of the presentinvention contemplate various structural modifications of theillumination assembly being integrated within or as part of theutilitarian device itself. Such integrated embodiments may therefore bepart of the original manufacture of the instrument, tool, utensil, etc.Accordingly, the light source and more specifically one or more LED'sare “built-in” the device and specifically located thereon so as tofacilitate the illumination of the intended work area of the device. Asa result, the functionality of the device will be greatly enhancedwithout the requirement of an external light source being attachedthereto. Due to the efficiently reduced size and weight of the variouscomponents of the plurality of embodiments of the illumination assemblythe integration of the light source and power supply, as well as otherassociated components, are such as to render the illumination assemblyof the present invention readily adaptable for such integration at thetime of the original manufacture of the device. The addition of an“inside” light and its proper location and orientation will have theeffect of minimizing shadows frequently caused by the improperpositioning of a light source, both internally and externally mounted,as may be known in related areas of endeavor. Also, the power supply inthe form of a removable and/or replaceable battery can be disposedwithin or integrally or otherwise fixedly secured to the appropriateportion of the device, depending on the physical characteristics of thedevice. Similar to the embodiments described above, the light source maycomprise one or more LED's located at the “working end” of the device orat other preferred locations in order to illuminate the aforementionedundesirable creation of shadows or dark areas in the field of theilluminated work area.

Various structural modifications of the integrated embodiments of theillumination assembly include the wiring of the LED's and the powersource internally along various parts of the device with which it isused. Also, the securement of the various components of the illuminationassembly may be accomplished by an overlying molded plastic or likematerial covering. The covering may itself contain the entireillumination assembly. As such, the housing, support platform or likestructure associated with the placement and storage of the battery maycome in different shapes and sizes to compensate for the structure ofthe device on which it is mounted. However, an important factor is theprovision of sufficient brightness and voltage of the required one ormore LED's to suit the specific industry standards of a given device.

Yet another preferred embodiment included in the “integrated” categoryof the illumination assemblies involves the formation of a plastic orother moldable material jacket or shell specifically adapted to conformto all or at least portions of the size and configuration of the deviceon which the illumination assembly is to be mounted. Moreover, thevarious operative components of the illumination assembly may beintegrated directly in the molded material shell or jacket, wherein theshell is mounted in overlying, covering or otherwise attached relationto the device or to predetermined portions thereof. Such attachment maybe by integrated molding, adhesive, inherently formed locking members ortabs or a variety of other applicable means to attach or connect theshell to the intended device.

As with the previously described “add-on” category of illuminationassembly embodiments, the “integrated” category of illumination assemblyembodiments may also include a light source having one or more LED's.Similarly, one or all of the LED's may be movable and thereforeadjustable relative to the intended work area, the device on which it ismounted and/or others of the plurality of LED's defining the lightsource. Proper and selective orientation of the light source is therebyaccomplished in this category of preferred illumination assemblyembodiments as also described in greater detail hereinafter.

Additional preferred embodiments of the present invention include amounting assembly comprising a base which is structured to include anexterior surface configuration adaptable to mounting on and engagementwith any of a plurality of different devices, including, but not limitedto the category of devices as set forth above. The external surfaceconfiguration comprises a recessed channel having a multi-sidedconfiguration, preferably including at least two sides. Two sides of themulti-sided configuration are cooperatively structured and formed into asubstantially “V-shape” configuration. As such, the two sides of thechannel are angularly oriented so as to converge into an intersectingrelation with one another. The size of the channel and/or the spacingbetween the multi-sides thereof may vary so as to further add to theadaptability of the base in facilitating removable but secure engagementof these embodiments of the illumination assembly on any one of aplurality of devices. Further, the base may be formed of a magneticmaterial in order to accomplish such removable securement.Alternatively, and/or in addition thereto the base may include anattachment assembly.

The attachment assembly of at least some of the preferred embodimentsassociated with the base of the mounting assembly comprises one or morepassages extending through a portion of the base. The one or morepassages are dimensioned and configured to receive a flexible band. Theflexible band may be in the form of a strap, tie, etc., of sufficientlength and overall structure to surround the corresponding portion ofthe device on which the illumination assembly is mounted. Removableconnection of the band in such a surrounding relation may beaccomplished by a variety of different connectors or fasteners such ashook and loop-type fasteners, snaps, fold-over tie ends, etc.

Additional features associated with these alternate preferredembodiments of the illumination assembly include the provision of acasing having an at least partially hollow interior in which at leastthe power supply and possibly a portion of the light source is mounted.In such an embodiment a switch assembly such as an on-off or otheractivation/deactivation type switch structure is connected to at leastthe power supply and is accessible from the exterior of the casing so asto selectively activate and deactivate the light source including one ormore of the light generating elements (LED's) associated therewith.

As an alternative to the casing, the mounting assembly, including theaforementioned base, may be operatively associated with a supportplatform on which a light source and/or power supply is mounted. In thisadditional preferred embodiment, the support platform includes aconductor assembly serving to electrically interconnect one or morepower supplies with one or more light generating elements or LED'sdefining the light source of the illumination assembly.

As with the previously described structures, the latter category ofpreferred embodiments, including the base as well as the variousstructures of the LED's, are such as to provide sufficient versatilityto facilitate use with any one of a large variety of utilitariandevices. Moreover, when so used, an adequate amount of illumination isdirected on to the work area of the various devices through adjustablepositioning of the mounting assembly on the device and/or orientation ofthe light source relative to the mounting assembly and the device.

These and other objects, features and advantages of the presentinvention will become more clear when the drawings as well as thedetailed description are taken into consideration.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a fuller understanding of the nature of the present invention,reference should be had to the following detailed description taken inconnection with the accompanying drawings in which:

FIGS. 1 and 1 a are side views of related preferred embodiments of theillumination assembly of the present invention as applied to autilitarian device represented by a pair of tweezers.

FIGS. 2 and 2 a are side views of additional preferred embodiments ofthe illumination assembly of the present invention incorporating amounting assembly differing from that of FIGS. 1 and 1 a.

FIG. 3 is a combination of the preferred embodiments of the illuminationassembly of the present invention as represented in FIGS. 1 through 2 a.

FIG. 4 is a composite view of various embodiments of the illuminationassembly of the present invention mounted on or connected to a pluralityof different utilitarian devices.

FIG. 5 is a side view of a preferred embodiment of the illuminationassembly of the present invention including a mounting assembly in theform of a sleeve.

FIG. 6 is a an exploded view of the various components associated withthe embodiment of FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is a side view of the illumination assembly of the presentinvention similar to the embodiment of FIG. 5 and including a differentlight source structure.

FIG. 8 is a side view of yet another embodiment of the sleeve mountingassembly as represented in FIGS. 5 through 7.

FIGS. 9 a and 9 b are end views of the embodiment of FIG. 8 shownrespectively representing open and closed positions.

FIG. 10 is a side view of yet another embodiment of the sleeve mountingassembly of the present invention.

FIGS. 11 a and 11 b are end views of the embodiment of FIG. 10respectively representing open and closed positions thereof.

FIG. 12 is a side view of the embodiment of the mounting assembly asshown in FIGS. 5 through 7.

FIG. 13 is an end view of the embodiment of FIG. 12 schematicallyrepresenting the sleeve mounting assembly formed from a resilient orexpandable material.

FIG. 14 is yet another preferred embodiment of the sleeve mountingassembly of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a composite view representing the sleeve mounting assembly ina plurality of different lengths.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of yet another preferred embodiment of amounting assembly associated with the illumination assembly of thepresent invention.

FIG. 16 a is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 16 shown in anopen position.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view in exploded form of the embodiments ofFIGS. 16 and 16 a.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIGS. 16, 16A and 17shown in assembled form.

FIG. 19 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 18.

FIG. 20 is a side view of the closing assembly of the embodiment ofFIGS. 16 and 16 a including structural modification of a light sourceassociated therewith.

FIG. 21 is a side view similar to the embodiment of FIG. 20 showing anadditional structural modification of a light source associatedtherewith.

FIG. 22 is a side view similar to the embodiment of FIG. 21 showing yetanother structural modification of a light source associated therewith.

FIG. 23 is a side view representing a closure assembly of the embodimentof FIGS. 16 and 16 a and including yet another structural modificationof the light source associated therewith.

FIG. 24 is a side view of yet another preferred embodiment of FIG. 23but incorporating the closure assembly of FIG. 12.

FIG. 25 is a composite view showing the closure assembly of theembodiment of FIG. 12 and incorporating a variety of differentstructural modifications of a light source and power supply which may beassociated therewith.

FIG. 26 is a detailed view in perspective showing yet another preferredembodiment of a light source of the illumination assembly of the presentinvention.

FIG. 27 is an exploded view of the embodiment of FIG. 26.

FIG. 28 is a composite view showing the various structural modificationsof a light source of the illumination assembly of the present invention.

FIG. 29 is yet another preferred embodiment of the light source of theillumination assembly of the present invention.

FIG. 30 is a side view of yet another preferred embodiment of the lightsource of the illumination assembly of the present invention.

FIG. 31 is yet another preferred embodiment of the light source of theillumination assembly of the present invention.

FIG. 32 is yet another preferred embodiment of a light source of theillumination assembly of the present invention.

FIG. 33 is yet another preferred embodiment of a light source of theillumination assembly of the present invention.

FIGS. 34 and 35 are side views similar to the embodiment of FIG. 3incorporating a different structural configuration.

FIG. 36 is an exploded view showing yet another preferred embodiment ofa light source and associated power supply of the illumination assemblyof the present invention.

FIG. 37 is a side view of yet another preferred embodiment incorporatingan electrical interface connection similar to the embodiment of FIG. 36.

FIG. 38 is a perspective view of yet another preferred embodiment ofillumination assembly of the present invention comprising an integratedor “built-in” construction.

FIG. 39 is a side view of yet another preferred embodiment of theintegrated modification of the illumination assembly of the presentinvention.

FIG. 40 is yet another preferred embodiment of the integrated structureof the illumination assembly of the present invention.

FIG. 41 is an exploded view of yet another preferred embodiment of theintegrated structure of the illumination assembly of the presentinvention.

FIG. 42 is a side view in assembled form of the embodiment of FIG. 41.

FIG. 43 is a side view of yet another preferred embodiment of theillumination assembly of the present invention mounted on any one of aplurality of devices such as, but not limited to, those represented inFIG. 4.

FIG. 44 is a side view of yet another preferred embodiment of theillumination assembly of the present invention.

FIG. 45 is a bottom perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 44.

FIG. 46 is a top perspective view of the preferred embodiment of FIGS.44 and 45.

FIG. 47 is a side view of yet another preferred embodiment of theillumination assembly of the present invention.

FIG. 48 is a top perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 47.

FIG. 49 is a top perspective view of a base portion of the preferredembodiment of FIGS. 47 and 48.

FIG. 50 is a bottom perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 49.

FIG. 51 is a composite side view of structural modifications which maybe incorporated in the embodiments of FIGS. 43 through 50.

FIG. 52 is a composite front view of structural modifications which maybe incorporated in each of the embodiments of FIGS. 43 through 51.

FIG. 53 is a composite front view of the embodiments of FIGS. 43 through51 mounted on different size devices similar to the device representedin FIG. 43.

FIG. 54 is a front view of an attachment assembly which may beincorporated at least in the preferred embodiments of FIGS. 43 through53, 55 and 56.

FIG. 55 is a side view of yet another preferred embodiment of theillumination assembly of the present invention.

FIG. 56 is side view of yet another preferred embodiment of theillumination assembly of the present invention.

Like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the several viewsof the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

As shown in the accompanying Figures, the present invention is directedtowards an illumination assembly generally indicated as 10 structured tobe removably and adjustably connected to or mounted on any one of a widevariety of utilitarian devices generally indicated as 12 in FIGS. 1through 3. For purposes of clarity, various types of devices with whichvarious embodiments of the illumination assembly 10 may be used arerepresented in composite form in FIG. 4. Such devices include wrenches,screwdrivers, saws, pliers, tire gauges, knives, containers, drills,scissors, medical instruments, etc. It is emphasized that the compositerepresentation of FIG. 4 is not meant to be all inclusive but rather itis representative of an even larger number of devices typically, but notnecessarily, operative while being hand held.

In order to simplify and further clarify the structural and operationaldetails of the illumination assembly 10 of the present invention, itsremovable and adjustable attachment, as shown in FIGS. 1 through 3, aswell as its integration into a device 12, 12′, the device 12 and 12′will be consistently presented as a pair of tweezers. However it isagain emphasized that each of the preferred embodiments of theillumination assembly 10 of the present invention can be adapted withlittle or no structural modification for use on any of an extremelylarge number of utilitarian devices such as, but not limited to, thosedisclosed in the composite view of FIG. 4. Further, the specificstructural components of each of the plurality of preferred embodimentsof the illumination assembly 10 will be described in greater detail withspecific reference to the accompanying Figures. However, it isrecognized that in providing a detailed description, the illuminationassembly, having various structural modifications representative of andat least partially defining the plurality of preferred embodiments, willbe consistently represented in the accompanying Figures by referencenumeral “10”, “110”, and/or “210”. Therefore, with primary reference toFIGS. 1 and 1 a, the illumination assembly 10 comprises a mountingassembly generally indicated as 14 preferably in the form of a sleeve16. Additional structural details of the sleeve 16 are disclosed anddescribed with reference to FIGS. 5 through 15. A light source 18 and apower supply 20 are mounted on or connected to an exterior of themounting assembly 16. When applied to the device 12, the illuminationassembly 10 is fitted thereon by removably and adjustably positioningthe mounting assembly 14 at an appropriate location relative to apredetermined and/or intended work area. It is of course to beunderstood that the intended work area will differ dependant upon thetype of the device 12 as well as its intended use and application.Therefore, the specific location of the illumination assembly 10 mayvary greatly in order to accomplish a maximum or appropriate level ofillumination of the intended work area. With reference to FIGS. 2 and 2a, the illumination assembly 10 comprises a mounting assembly 14′ whichdiffers from that of the embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 1 a and which will bedescribed in greater detail in hereinafter with specific reference toFIGS. 17 through 22. However, common to both the mounting assemblies 14and 14′ is the ability to be removably and adjustably mounted on orconnected to any of a plurality of different portions of a device 12 inorder to most effectively illuminate a predetermined work area of thedevice 12.

As shown in FIG. 3 the device 12, again dependent upon its use andstructural or physical characteristics, may include a plurality ofdifferent types of illumination assemblies 10. The individualillumination assemblies 10 include different ones of the mountingassemblies 14 and 14′ as well as modifications both in structure,quantity and placement with the various light sources 18. However, it isemphasized that in each of the preferred embodiments of the presentinvention, the light source 18 may include at least one but in manyinstances a plurality of light generating elements. Further, as will beemphasized throughout the description of the present invention, the oneor more light generating elements preferably, but not exclusivelycomprise, light emitting diodes (LED). Each of the light generatingelements or LED's may differ in their structure and operationalperformance by being either fixed or adjustable as described in greaterdetail with specific reference to FIGS. 26 through 37.

Therefore, as generally represented in the embodiments of FIGS. 1, 1 a,2, 2 a and 3, any number of utilitarian devices may include one or moreillumination assemblies 10. Further, each of the one or moreillumination assemblies 10 may include a light source having by one ormore LED's and one or more power supplies electrically connected theretoso as to provide operative energy for the activation of the one or moreLED's. Each of the one or more LED's may be either fixed or adjustableinto a preferred orientation, relative to the intended work area of thedevice 12, the mounting assembly 14 or 14′ to which they are connectedas well as others of a plurality of LED's associated with the sameillumination assembly 10.

With primary reference to FIGS. 5 through 15 the sleeve 16 of themounting assembly 14 comprises a substantially hollow interior 19 andtwo oppositely disposed open ends. The sleeves 16 may include structuralmodifications which may be considered additional preferred embodimentsof the illumination assembly 10 of the present invention. However,common to each of the sleeves 16, 16′ 16″ and 16′″, the light source 18and the power supply 20 are mounted on an exterior surface or otherexposed portion thereof. As shown in FIG. 6, the light source 18includes at least one LED 25 secured to a mount 27 which itself mayassume a variety of different structural configurations, sizes, etc. Thepower supply 20 may be secured to a base or housing 20′, wherein boththe light source 18 and the power supply 20 are secured to a commonsupport platform 28 in substantially adjacent relation to one another.

An electrical conductor or other appropriate means of establishingelectrical interconnection between the power supply 20 and the lightsource 18 may be incorporated within the platform 28, as at 30, or maybe separate therefrom. Also, attachment or other disposition of thelight source 18 and power supply 20 may be accomplished by securing thesupport platform 28 by means of individual, separate connectors 31fitted into or cooperatively structured to be received at or aboutsocket or recess areas 32 formed in the platform 28. It is also to benoted that a variety of other appropriate means of attachment of theplatform 28 to the mounting assembly 12 can be utilized such asadhesive, heat welding, etc.

As represented in the preferred embodiment of FIG. 7 various operativecomponents of the illumination assembly 10 can vary and still beincorporated within the intended spirit and scope of the presentinvention. More specifically, the light source 18, may include aconnector 31 having one or more LED's 25 secured thereto and beingdisposed in an outwardly, easy adjustable location relative to theplatform 28 and the mounting assembly 14. This outwardly disposedconnector 31 may be in the form of a pliable, wire or arm-likeattachment which, due to its pliable nature, facilitates the selectiveorientation of the light source 18 in any of a number of differentpositions to accomplish appropriate illumination of the work area.

FIGS. 8, 9 a and 9 b disclose yet another preferred embodiment of thesleeve 16′ which includes an access opening 33 extending along itslength. A closure 35 is connected to or otherwise directly associatedwith the access opening 33 such as by being secured to peripheral edgesor portions thereof as at 35′. Similarly, the embodiment of FIGS. 10, 11a and 11 b disclose the sleeve 16″ having an access opening 33 extendingalong the length thereof, wherein the closure assembly 37 is in the formof a hook and loop type fastener or other easily removably attachablefastener structure facilitating the opening and closing of the accessopening 33. Similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 9 a and 9 b, the hook andloop type fastener 37 may be secured to opposite peripheral or adjacentportions of the access opening 33 as at 37′. As clearly shown in FIGS. 9a and 9 b and 11 a, 11 b provision of the access opening 33 and therespective closure assemblies 35 and 37 facilitate the sleeve 16′ and16″ being selectively disposed between an open position (9 a and 11 a)and a closed position (9 b and 11 b). Accordingly, when in the openposition, an appropriate portion of the device 12 to which theillumination assembly 10 is attached may pass transversely through theaccess opening 33. Thereafter, the sleeve-like closure assembly 14 isdisposed in its closed position so as to substantially surround and atleast partially enclose a corresponding portion of the device 12 towhich it is attached.

FIG. 12 represents the preferred embodiment of the sleeve 16 of closureassembly 14 as demonstrated in FIGS. 5 through 7. More specifically, thesleeve 16 may be formed of a flexible, at least minimally elasticmaterial. As demonstrated by the directional arrows of FIG. 13, thesleeve 16 can expand outwardly, if needed, to accommodate the size andother structural characteristics of the portion of the device 12 towhich it is attached. Such elastic qualities of the sleeve 16 enable itto be removably secured to various portions of the device 12 whereappropriate, while at the same time allowing it to be easily adjustableeither along its length or rotationally as demonstrated by theappropriate directional arrows 15 of FIG. 3. However, it should also benoted that the sleeve 16, when intended for use on somewhat largerdevices than the representative tweezers of the accompanying drawings,may be formed from a rigid or semi-rigid material to facilitate thestability of the illumination assembly 10 when connected to such alarger device.

Additional structural modifications of the sleeve 16′″ include a taperedconfiguration generally indicated as 17. As represented in FIG. 14, atleast one of two oppositely disposed open ends communicating with thehollow interior 19 may be tapered so as to better conform to thedimension or configuration of the device to which it is connected. Thesleeve 16′″ may also be formed of either a flexible, at least minimallyelastic material as with the embodiment of FIG. 12 or may be formed of arigid or semi-rigid material as described above. Further, any of theembodiments of FIGS. 8 through 14 may vary in length as demonstrated bythe composite representation of FIG. 15. The preferred length of thesleeve 16 will of course be dependent upon the device to which it isattached including its size, configuration, placement of the mountingassembly 14 and the intended use of the device.

With primary reference to FIGS. 16 through 22, the mounting assembly 14,as set forth above with reference to FIGS. 2 and 2 a may differ from thesleeve 16 as described in detail with reference to FIGS. 5 through 15.More specifically, the mounting assembly 14 of the embodiment of FIGS.17 through 22 comprises a clamp assembly 40 having a support platformwhich may be in the form of an elongated, substantially cylindricalhousing 42 and a plurality of flanges. There is preferably provided twoflanges 44 and 46 movable relative to the housing 42 and extendingoutwardly therefrom. As shown in the embodiments of FIGS. 17 through 19,when the housing 42 is defined by a continuous cylindrical configurationextending along substantially the entire length of the clamp assembly40, the light source 18 and the power supply 20 may be secured toopposite ends thereof. However, the dimension, configuration andlocation of the cylindrical housing 42 may vary as at 42″ in theembodiments of FIGS. 21 and 22 such that the light source, including oneor more LED's 25 may be connected adjacent to the housing 42′, such ason a support platform 28′, similar to that described with theembodiments of FIGS. 5 through 7.

Alternatively, FIG. 20 discloses the flat or other non-cylindricalconfiguration of the support platform 28 while still being associateddirectly with and defining a portion of the clamp assembly 40 includingthe outwardly extending flanges 44 and 46. Other structural featuresassociated with the clamp assembly 40, as demonstrated in theembodiments of FIGS. 16 through 18, include the provision of a biasingassembly. In the embodiment of FIG. 17 the biasing assembly comprises atleast one biasing spring or like member 48 attached to and made apart ofthe clamp assembly by being disposed in biasing engagement with theflanges 44 and 46. More specifically, the biasing member 48 may bedisposed in receiving relation within a recess or formed groove 49. Insuch a position, corresponding portions of the biasing member 48 engageand tend to normally bias the flanges 44 and 46 into a closed orgripping position demonstrated in FIG. 16. Due to the fact that theflanges 44 and 46 are at least minimally movable relative to the housingand support platform 42, 28 the flanges 44 and 46 may be separated toaccommodate and receive an appropriate portion of a device 12 as clearlyrepresented in FIGS. 2, 2 a and 3, as set forth above. Further theflanges 44 and 46 may include initially separable peripheral portions orlips as at 51 to facilitate the spreading of flanges 44 and 46 andaccess to the interior thereof as indicated by directional arrows 53.

Also in at least one preferred embodiment one or more of the flanges 44and 46 may include indentations or groove segments 55 formed thereinsuch that a portion of the device 12 to which they are attached, such asthe leg of tweezer as demonstrated in FIGS. 2 and 2 a will be receivedin a stable manner within such grooves 55. It should be apparent thatthrough action of the biasing means, such as the biasing member 48, theflanges 44 and 46 are biased into a gripping or clamping engagement witha corresponding portion of the device 12. Such a gripping or clampingaction still allows for the longitudinal sliding placement orpositioning of the corresponding illumination assembly 10 on variousportions of the device 12 and/or alternatively allows for the rotationthereof as demonstrated by directional arrow 15′ of FIG. 3.

It should be further noted that the aforementioned biasing means maytake the form of an “inherent bias” such as by the clamp assembly 40being formed from a moldable, inherently resilient material such asplastic, metal, etc. As such the flanges 44 and 46, while still beingmovable relative to the housing 42 or support platform 28, areinherently biased into the closed position of FIG. 16. Separation of theflanges 44 and 46 may occur due to the spread lip configuration of 51 toat least temporarily dispose the flanges 44 and 46 into the openposition of FIG. 16 a. The open position facilitates placement of acorresponding portion of the device 12 into the interior of the clampassembly 40 as indicated by directional arrows 53.

With reference to FIGS. 23 and 24 the versatility and structuraladaptability of the various preferred embodiments of the illuminationassembly 10 is demonstrated by the power supply 20 and a variety ofdifferent light sources 18′ being mounted on different ones of themounting assemblies 14 such as the clamp assembly 40 and the sleeve 16.The preferred embodiments of the light source is indicated as 18′ inFIGS. 23 and 24 will be described in greater detail with specificreference to FIGS. 31 through 36. FIG. 25 represents a composite of aplurality of various structural modifications each defining yetadditional preferred embodiments of the illumination assembly 10 of thepresent invention. As disclosed, a mounting assembly 14 which may be inthe form of sleeve 16 or clamp assembly 40 may be disposed insupporting, connecting relation to a variety of different combinationsof light sources 18 and power supplies 20. Further, as will be explainedin even greater detail with reference to FIGS. 26 through 28, thevarious light sources 18, including one or more LED's 25, may be fixedor adjustably/movably supported relative to a corresponding one of themounting assemblies 14. As such, either or both of the mounting assembly14 and/or the individual light sources 18 including the one or moreLED's 25 associated therewith, may be adjustably positioned and/ororiented relative to the work area of the device 12, which is intendedto be illuminated.

Such selective orientation and adjustable positioning of the lightsource 18 is further demonstrated in the structural features of thepreferred embodiments of FIGS. 26 through 30. More specifically, FIG. 26discloses a light source 18 which is capable of both rotational movementas indicated by directional arrow 60 and linear, pivotal or twistingmovement as indicated by directional arrow 62. In accomplishing suchuniversal type movement an attendant orientation of the LED 25 as wellas the overall light source 18, the mount 50 includes a cap or headportion 52 removably secured to a base 54 preferably by means of a“snap-fit” type of connection. Such snap-fit connection is accomplishedby cooperative dimensioning and positioning of corresponding peripheraledges 52′ and 54′ disclosed in FIG. 27. Therefore, the head or cap 50may be “press fitted” onto the base 54 wherein sufficient tolerances arebuilt into the peripheral portions 52′ and 54′ to facilitate thesnap-fit connection while still allowing for the rotational and pivotalor twisting movement 60 and 62 respectively.

As represented, the cap 52 is rotational as indicated by directionalarrow 60, relative to the base 54 while concurrently allowing thevertical or other directional twisting or pivoting of the LED 25relative to the cap 52 and base 54 as indicated by directional arrows62. The aforementioned rotational, pivotal twisting or like movement ofthe LED 25 is accomplished by a pin and hinge type of attachmentutilizing conventional or customized connector members 57. Therefore,the LED 25 and cooperative components of the light source 18 can be saidto move concurrently in substantially transverse axes defined by therotational axis of the head 52 relative to base 54 and the pivotal axisat least partially defined by the connecting pin of the connectormembers 57 represented in FIG. 27.

FIGS. 28 through 30 represent other structural modifications of thelight source 18, wherein the cap or head 52 is fixedly secured to thebase 54 and/or movable thereto as represented in FIG. 27 and furtherwherein one or more LED's 25 may be fixedly secured to the cap 52 in avariety of different locations as indicated by the composite of FIG. 28.In addition, FIG. 29 shows that the head or cap 52 is fixed relative tothe base 54 and the LED 25 and mount 27 are interconnected by the hingetype connectors 57 (FIG. 27) to accomplish the reciprocal pivotalmovement demonstrated by directional arrows 62 in FIG. 26. Somewhatsimilarly, the embodiment of FIG. 30 has been at least briefly describedabove a providing a fixed or movable interconnecting cap 52 and base 54supporting LED 25 and mount 27 by means of an outwardly extendingpliable material connecting arm or like structure 21.

The embodiments of FIGS. 31 through 37 are directed to an extensionassembly which is representative of yet another preferred embodiment ofthe light source 18 incorporated within the illumination assembly 10.More specifically the mount 50 may include the head or cap 52 beingfixedly or movably secured to the base 54. In addition, an extensionassembly includes an elongated extension arm 66 having a light source 18secured thereto. In the embodiments of FIGS. 31 and 32 the light source18 may include one or more LED's 25 secured adjacent or contiguous tothe outer end of the extension neck 66. In the embodiments of FIGS. 33through 35 the extension neck 66′ may be modified to have asubstantially linear configuration or alternatively an angular or arcedconfiguration.

Further structural modification of the extension neck 66′ includes theprovision for mounting a plurality of LED's preferable in succession,along at least a portion of the length of the extension neck 66′ inorder to further facilitate the versatility and adaptability inilluminating a predetermined work area of the device on which the lightsource 18′ is supported or connected. Further structural modifications,defining at least yet another preferred embodiment of the illuminationassembly of the present invention is demonstrated in FIG. 36. Morespecifically, the extension neck 66′ of the light source 18′ isconnected to the power supply 20′ by means of an electrically couplinginterface generally indicated as 70. The interface 70 includes a plugand receiving pin 72 and 74 respectively disposed and structured fordetachable connection to one another wherein the power supply 20′,including a contained battery is connected to the coupling interface pin74 by appropriate conductors as at 76. The plug may be imbedded in orotherwise secured to the mount 50. Obviously the plug and the pinarrangement can be reversed such that the plug 72 is mounted on thesupport platform 28 in association with the base segment 54 rather thanwith the cap or head portion 52 of the mount 50.

Movable adjustment of the entire extension neck 66′ can be readilyaccomplished in either a rotational, pivotal or reciprocal twistingmovement as demonstrated with respect to the embodiment of FIG. 26 dueat least in part to the interconnection between the base segment 54 andthe head 52 as described with reference to FIG. 27 and the fact that theconnecting conductors as at 76′ are loosely disposed and/or aresufficient length to accommodate the aforementioned diverse or universaltype of movement. FIG. 37 represents yet another embodiment of thecoupling interface as at 70′ comprising a plug or receptor 72′ disposedand structured to receive a cooperatively structured receptacle pin (notshown for purposes of clarity) which may be associated with an“external” power supply rather than the contained, cooperativelydisposed power supply 20 normally directly associated with the lightsource 18.

With primary reference to FIGS. 38 through 42 additional preferredembodiments of the illumination assembly are disclosed therein which aredistinguishable from the above-noted preferred embodiments of FIGS. 1through 37. More specifically, the preferred embodiments of FIGS. 38through 42 are distinguishable by being substantially integrated or“built-in” rather than being removably attached and/or mounted onvarious ones the plurality of devices 12′ as described above. Forpurposes of consistency and clarity, each of the devices 12′ referred tohereinafter will also be represented by a tweezer-like structure.However, as with the other preferred embodiments set forth in FIGS. 1through 37, the device 12′ may be any of any of an extremely largenumber of utilitarian devices such as, but not limited to, those devicesset forth in the composite of FIG. 4. Also, the preferred embodiments ofFIGS. 38 through 42, being integrated into the individual devices 12′,are absent a mounting assembly 14 of the type set forth above withspecific reference to the sleeve type mounting assembly 16 or the clampassembly 40.

The illumination assembly generally indicated as 80 of the integratedcategory of preferred embodiments include a light source 82 comprisingone or more light generating elements, wherein each of the lightgenerating elements are preferably in the form of an LED of the type setforth above. Similarly, the light source 82 may include an adjustablemount such as of the type indicated generally as 50 and including a base54 and a head or cap portion 52. Such mount structure 50 may bestructured to be a fixed one piece construction as demonstrated in thecomposite of FIG. 28 or may be universally movable as indicated bydirectional arrows 60 and 62 represented in FIG. 26. However, it shouldbe noted that the light source 82 comprising one or more LED's may beotherwise structured to best accommodate its integrated inclusion withinany one the plurality of devices 12′ with which it is associated.

In that the ultimate goal is to accomplish a desired or maximum level ofillumination of the work area of the device 12′, such desired amount ofillumination may be accomplished by providing a plurality of lightsources and associated LED's in different, spaced apart and/orsubstantially adjacent portions of the device 12′. The desiredillumination may also be accomplished by allowing the LED or otheroperative components of the light source 82 to be adjustable in orderthat the light source may be selectively positioned on the device 12′.In addition to the adjustability of the light source 82, one or moreLED's associated therewith may be selectively oriented relative to thework area of the device 12′ and/or the device 12′ itself. With furtherreference to the embodiments of FIGS. 38 and 39, a power supplygenerally indicated as 84 is also integrated within the device 12′ suchas by including one or more batteries, which may or may not bereplaceable, within a housing 86. A closure member 88 may be removablyand/or movably attached to the housing 86 in order to facilitate accessto the interior thereof and to the batteries contained therein. Also,the closure member 86 may be further structured to at least partiallyserve as a switch device operable to activate and deactivate the lightsource 82.

The power supply or batteries contained within the housing 86 areelectrically connected to the light source to provide sufficient energyto activate the one or more LED's associated therewith. As such, one ormore conductors 90 are located within the interior of appropriateinterconnecting portions of the device 12, as shown in FIG. 38 oralternatively may be disposed along an exterior surface as at 90′ inFIG. 39. In this latter embodiment the conductor 90′ as well as certainother operative components of the light assembly 80 may be “integrated”into the device 12′ by means of encapsulating the conductor 90′ and/orother operative components within or beneath a dipped or molded plastic,rubber or like material outer coating. It is of course noted that thespecific location or placement of the light sources 82, the conductors90, 90′ as well as the location, configuration and dimension of thehousing 86 of the power supply 84 may vary dependant upon the physicalcharacteristics and use of the particular device 12′ with which theillumination assembly 80 is used.

With primary reference to FIGS. 40 through 42, yet another preferredembodiment included within the integrated category of illuminationassemblies comprises a jacket or overlying covering generally indicatedas 12″. The jacket 12″ will be formed from a moldable plastic or likematerial capable of being fabricated, using any appropriate means, to asize and configuration corresponding to that of the actual device 12′.FIG. 41 discloses the jacket or covering 12″ in an unassembled position,wherein the indicated directional arrows are representative of theplacement of the true device 12′ into the jacket or shell assembly 12″.In the specific representation where 12′ is a tweezer type of structure,the head or stem 94 is received within a socket 94′ of the shell 12″ asclearly indicated. The power supply generally indicated as 84, includingthe housing 86 may be integrally or otherwise fixedly secured to theshell or jacket 12″ as indicated. Similarly, one or more electricalconductors 90 are integrated within or otherwise fixedly secured to thevarious correspondingly disposed portions of the shell or jacket 12″ inorder to establish electrical connection between the power supply 84 andthe one or more light sources 82. Specific mounting and securement ofthe shell or jacket 12″ may be accomplished by a number of appropriateconnecting means. One example thereof would be the provision of mountingor connecting tabs 96 secured to appropriate portions or surfaces of theshell 12″ as clearly indicated in FIG. 40. Obviously other means ofattachment may be utilized to facilitate a secure and sometimespermanently fixed integration of the shell or jacket 12″ and the device12′.

With primary reference to FIGS. 43 through 56, the illumination assemblyof the present invention further includes an additional plurality ofpreferred embodiments which may include similar or substantiallyequivalent operative components as those described above with regard tothe embodiments of FIGS. 1 through 42.

More specifically and with reference first to the preferred embodimentrepresented in FIGS. 43 through 46, the illumination assembly 110comprises a casing 112 integrally or otherwise fixedly secured to amounting assembly, generally indicated as 114. Further, the mountingassembly 114 includes a base 116 also integrally or otherwise similarlyattached to the casing 112 so as to at least partially define a onepiece construction. Also, the casing 112 may comprise an at leastpartially hollow interior. A power supply 118 is schematicallyrepresented in FIG. 44 and is at least partially disposed within thecasing 112 and is electrically connected to a light source, generallyindicated as 120.

Light source 120 includes a light generating element preferably in theform of an LED 122 and a mount 124 which is connected to and may be atleast partially disposed within the interior of the casing 112. As willbe explained in greater detail hereinafter with primary reference toFIG. 51, the light source 120 may be removably secured to the casing forrepair, replacement, maintenance, etc. Activation of the light source120 is accomplished by a switch assembly 126 which is represented in theform of an end cap 128. The end cap 128 is electrically connected to thepower supply 118 and upon manual manipulation thereof may serve toactivate or deactivate the light source 120. The cap or switch member128 may be turned, twisted, pushed or otherwise manipulated to operatethe switch assembly 126 between the on/off or activation/deactivationmode.

Yet another preferred embodiment of the illumination assembly isgenerally designated as 110′ and primarily represented in FIGS. 47through 50. The illumination assembly 110′ is substantially similar tothe illumination assembly 110 differing primarily in the fact that thebase 116′ is not integrally connected to the casing 112 as a one-piececonstruction. To the contrary, the base 116′, while being fixedlysecured to the casing 112, may be initially formed separately therefrom.Attachment or mounting of the casing 112 on the base 116′ can beaccomplished by a variety of different connecting or attachmentfacilities including adhesive or any other applicable means. Theremaining operative features and components of the alternative preferredembodiments of the illumination assembly 110 and 110′ may besubstantially equivalent as demonstrated.

A common feature of both these preferred embodiments, include thestructuring of the base 116 and 116′ to facilitate its securement on astem, rod, shaft or like portion 130 of a utilitarian device 132. Asdemonstrated, the device 132 is preferably in the form of a screwdriveror like tool. However, as emphasized with regard to the previouslydescribed embodiments, the illumination assemblies 10, 110, 110′, 210,etc., are not limited to being used with any single tool, mechanism ordevice 132 but may be utilized with any of a plurality of devices, arepresentative selection of which is presented in the composite view ofFIG. 4. More specifically, the bases 116 and 116′ include an externalsurface configuration comprising a recessed channel generally indicatedas 134 and formed on the bottom of the base 116, 116′. The recesschannel 134 comprises a multi-sided configuration preferably includingat least two sides 136 and 138. Further, the two sides 136 and 138 areangularly oriented so as to converge into intersecting relation with oneanother as clearly demonstrated. Accordingly, the multi-sided ortwo-sided recessed channel 134 may also be defined as a substantiallyinverted “V-shape” when in its operative position, such as thatdemonstrated in FIG. 43.

With regard to FIGS. 52 and 53, the two-sided, substantially V-shapedconfiguration of channel 134 is readily adaptable to be mounted oncorresponding stems, shafts, etc., 130 of varying dimensions ordiameters. In order to further facilitate secure, but removableconfronting engagement of the recessed channels 134 with the portions130 of a device 132, the spacing and/or angular orientation between thesides 136 and 138 may vary as clearly demonstrated in FIG. 52. Thisvariation in angular orientation or spacing between the sides 136 and138 further increases the versatility in the type, size andconfiguration of the device 132 and portion thereof 130 on which theillumination assembly 110, 110′ may be mounted.

In order to further facilitate a secure but removable connection of theillumination assembly 110 and 110′ on any one of a plurality ofdifferent devices 132, the base 116 and/or 116′ of the mounting assembly114 may be formed of a magnetic material. Accordingly, the magneticproperties of the base will serve to securely mount the respectiveillumination assembly 110 or 110′ on a metallic portion 130 of any of aplurality of different devices 132. However, the base 116, 116′ may alsobe made of a plastic or other material not having magnetic properties.As such, the base 116 and/or 116′ may include an attachment assemblygenerally indicated as 140 in FIG. 54.

Attachment assembly 140 includes one or more relatively elongated bands142 defined by a variety of different attachment structures formed froma flexible or pliable material. Also, the one or more bands 142 are ofsufficient length to surround a corresponding portion 130. In theembodiment of FIG. 54, the ends 143 and 145 are “free” and may beinterconnected, when the band 142 is in surrounding relation to theportion 130 by means of any appropriate fastener or connector. Suchfasteners may include hook and loop-type fasteners, snaps, etc.Attachment of the band 142 to the base 116 or 116′ is accomplished bythe attachment assembly 140 further including one or more passages 146extending through the respective bases 116 and/or 116′. Each of thepassages 146 terminate in oppositely disposed open ends 148 and/or 148′formed in each of the bases 116 and/or 116′. When a single passage 146is utilized, the single band 142 may have an increased transversedimension than that of a smaller, but otherwise substantially equivalentband passing through the openings 148′. The size of the base 116 or 116′as well as the type, size, configuration, etc., of the device 132 onwhich the illumination assembly 110, 110′ is mounted, may bedeterminative of the number of bands 142 utilized to facilitateremovable securement of the illumination assemblies 110, 110′, 210, etc.

With primary reference to FIGS. 55 and 56, yet another preferredembodiment of the illumination assembly is generally indicated as 210.This embodiment includes a mounting assembly comprising a base 116′substantially equivalently structured to the embodiment disclosed inFIGS. 47 through 50. In addition, the illumination assembly 210 includesa support platform 150 integrally secured or otherwise fixedly attachedto the upper or outer exposed surface 152 (see FIG. 49) of the base116′. The platform 150 may be similarly or equivalently structured tothe support platform 28 disclosed in FIG. 6 and described in detailabove. As such, the platform 150 may include a conductor assembly 30which serves to electrically interconnect one or more of the powersupply batteries 20 with the light source 120.

In addition, as demonstrated in FIGS. 51, 55 and 56 the light source 120and/or the power supply 118 may be defined by one or more batteries 20and a variety of different light generating elements defining theindividual light sources 120. As further demonstrated, each of the lightsources 120 may include one or more LED's or equivalent light generatingelements, as at 25 and 122. Also, the light source 120 may include a“gooseneck type” of connector or conductor 152 or a relatively rigid orflexible or adjustable arm or extension 18′ disclosed in FIG. 55 anddiscussed in detail with regard to the embodiments of FIGS. 23, 24 and31 through 36.

Yet additional structural modifications which may be incorporated in theembodiments of FIGS. 43 through 50 and 52 through 56 include theremovably attachment of the light source 120 and/or 120′ to an end orother appropriate portion of the casing 112 as demonstrated in FIG. 51.The connection between the mount 124 or 124′ of the respective lightsources 120 and 120′ may be by a threaded connection as at 127 or byother secure but removable connections.

Yet additional features which may be incorporated in the variousembodiments of FIGS. 43 through 56 is the provision of a sealingassembly secured to, incorporated within or otherwise associated withthe casing 112. As such, the sealing assembly may include one or moreO-rings or like sealing structures 160 appropriately disposed andstructured to restrict the exposure of the light source 120, powersupply 118 and/or switch assembly 126 to liquid and/or other fluid. Thissealing assembly thereby allows the illumination assembly 110 and/or110′ to be submersible and be attached to any of a plurality ofdifferent devices 132 of the type used underwater or in a submergedenvironment.

Since many modifications, variations and changes in detail can be madeto the described preferred embodiment of the invention, it is intendedthat all matters in the foregoing description and shown in theaccompanying drawings be interpreted as illustrative and not in alimiting sense. Thus, the scope of the invention should be determined bythe appended claims and their legal equivalents.

1. An illumination assembly useable with any one of a plurality ofdevices for illuminating a work area of the device, said illuminationassembly comprising: a light source including at least one lightgenerating element, a power supply operatively connected to said lightsource, a mounting assembly structured to interconnect at least one ofsaid light source and said power supply to the device, said mountingassembly including a base structured and at least partially configuredto facilitate securement of said base to any one of the plurality ofdevices, said base comprising an external surface configurationincluding a recessed channel having a multi-sided interior surfaceconfiguration; said multi-sided interior surface configurationcomprising at least two sides each disposable in confronting engagementwith any of the plurality of devices, and said two sides of saidmulti-sided interior surface configuration being angularly oriented intointersecting relation to one another to define a substantially V-shapedconfiguration.
 2. An illumination assembly as recited in claim 1 whereinsaid recessed channel extends along at least a majority of a length ofsaid base.
 3. An illumination assembly as recited in claim 1 whereinsaid base is at least partially formed of a magnetic material.
 4. Anillumination assembly as recited in claim 1 further comprising a casing,said light generating element and said power supply connected to saidcasing.
 5. An illumination assembly as recited in claim 4 wherein saidcasing and said base are integrally connected and comprise asubstantially one-piece construction.
 6. An illumination assembly asrecited in claim 1 further comprising a casing connected to said lightsource and said power supply, said base disposed in interconnectingrelation between said casing and any of the plurality of device.
 7. Anillumination assembly as recited in claim 6 wherein said power supply ismounted at least partially within said casing.
 8. An illuminationassembly as recited in claim 7 wherein said one light generating elementis disposed on said casing so as to direct light outwardly from saidcasing onto the work area of the device.
 9. An illumination assembly asrecited in claim 7 further comprising a switch assembly operativelyconnected to said power supply and structured to facilitate selectiveactivation and deactivation of said light source.
 10. An illuminationassembly as recited in claim 1 further comprising an attachment assemblyconnected to said base and structured to removably secure said base tothe device.
 11. An illumination assembly as recited in claim 10 whereinsaid attachment assembly further comprises at least one band of flexiblematerial connected to said base and disposable in surrounding relationto a portion of the device.
 12. An illumination assembly as recited inclaim 11 wherein said attachment assembly comprises at least one passagedisposed on said base and structured to receive said band there through.13. An illumination assembly useable with any one of a plurality ofdevices for illuminating a work area of the device, said illuminationassembly comprising: a light source including at least one lightgenerating element, a power supply operatively connected to said lightgenerating element, a casing, said light source and said power supplyconnected to said casing, a mounting assembly including a base, saidbase secured to said casing and including an external surfaceconfiguration structured to facilitate securement of said base to thedevice, said external surface configuration comprising a recessedchannel having at least two sides each disposable in confrontingengagement any one of the plurality of devices and an attachmentassembly comprising a passage extending transversely through said baseand at least one band passing through said passage and extendingoutwardly from opposite sides of said base.
 14. An illumination assemblyas recited in claim 13 wherein said attachment assembly comprises aplurality of passages extending transversly through said base, each ofsaid passages terminating in oppositely disposed open ends andstructured to receive a different one of a plurality of said bands. 15.An illumination assembly as recited in claim 13 wherein said two sidesare angularly oriented into intersecting relation to one another andcollectively define a substantially V-shaped configuration.
 16. Anillumination assembly as recited in claim 13 wherein said power supplyis mounted at least partially within said casing.
 17. An illuminationassembly as recited in claim 16 wherein said light generating element isremovably connected to said casing and disposed so as to direct lightoutwardly therefrom onto the work area of the device.
 18. Anillumination assembly as recited in claim 17 further comprising a switchassembly operatively connected to said power supply and structured tofacilitate selective activation and deactivation of said light source.19. An illumination assembly as recited in claim 18 further comprising aseal assembly connected to said casing and disposed and structured torestrict exposure of said light source, said power supply and saidswitch assembly to liquid.
 20. An illumination assembly useable with anyone of a plurality of devices for illuminating a work area of thedevice, said illumination assembly comprising: a light source includinga plurality of light generating elements, a power supply operativelyconnected to said light generating element, a mounting assemblycomprising a base, said base connected in supporting relation to saidlight source and said power supply, a recessed channel disposed on saidbase and structured to facilitate securement of said base to any one ofthe plurality of devices, said recessed channel structured to at leastpartially receive any of the plurality of devices therein, and at leastone of said plurality of light generating elements being adjustablypositionable relative to a remainder of said plurality of lightgenerating elements.
 21. An illumination assembly as recited in claim 20further comprising a platform interconnecting said light source and saidpower supply to said base.
 22. An illumination assembly as recited inclaim 21 wherein said platform comprises a conductor assembly disposedand structured to electrically interconnect said light source and saidpower supply.
 23. An illumination assembly as recited in claim 21wherein said recessed channel includes a multi-sided configuration atleast some of which is disposable in a confronting engagement with thedevice.
 24. An illumination assembly as recited in claim 23 wherein saidmulti-sided configuration comprises at least two sides, each disposablein confronting engagement with the device.
 25. An illumination assemblyas recited in claim 24 wherein said multi-sided configuration is definedby a substantially V-shaped configuration.
 26. An illumination assemblyas recited in claim 24 wherein said two sides are angularly orientedinto intersecting relation to one another.